Yoga Dasara launches in Mysuru with four‑day programme

The four‑day Yoga Dasara began on Wednesday at the J.K. Grounds in Mysuru, inaugurated by Gavi Mutt seer Abhinava Gavisiddeshwara Mahaswami. The theme ‘Yoga for a healthy tomorrow’ guided the opening ceremony attended by yoga trainers, practitioners and officials. Organisers said yoga can reduce lifestyle‑related risk factors and should complement, not replace, medical treatment. Srivatsa, principal of Government Ayurveda College and Hospital, stressed that Ashtanga Yoga requires personalized practice and consistent effort for real benefit. Ganesh Kumar, principal of Swami Vivekananda Yoga and Anusandhana Samsthana, referred to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recognition of Mysuru as a yoga hub and urged outreach programmes such as ‘Mane Mane Yoga’ to reach every citizen. Medical experts held seminars after the inauguration and an art troupe performed Yoga Nruthya Roopaka, a blend of classical dance and yoga postures. On October 16 a state‑level competition will be held at the P. Kalingarao Auditorium, featuring 23 categories for all age groups; about 1,650 participants have registered online. Nanjangud taluk was chosen for a pilot yoga‑training study under the National AYUSH Mission. Since August 1 a 90‑day programme has run in 45 gram panchayaths with 90 trainers, and participants will join a Rural Yoga Dasara on October 18 at Government PU College Stadium, Nanjangud. Feedback will guide expansion across Mysuru district. The festival will close with a trek on Chamundi Hills from 6 a.m. to 9 a.m. on October 19, and the sub‑committee will honour ten yoga experts and trainers from various taluks.

Context

Mysuru’s designation as a yoga hub aims to promote health‑focused activities across urban and rural communities, linking traditional practice with modern wellness initiatives.